🌊 Major Capitol Lake Restoration Project Advances

The Washington State Department of Ecology is moving forward with its plan to restore Capitol Lake back into a natural estuary — reconnecting it to the Deschutes River and Budd Inlet.

The effort will:

• Remove the existing dam and tide gate

• Restore tidal flow to the estuary

• Improve flood protection for downtown

• Support salmon habitat and biodiversity

• Boost climate resilience for the region

💸 Estimated Cost: $416 million
🛠️ Design Milestone: 60% complete by end of 2025

While construction is still a few years away, this is one of the largest environmental restoration efforts in South Sound history.

🌱 Why It Matters
The transformation of Capitol Lake has been debated for decades. Now, state officials say the momentum is real — with firm timelines, completed studies, and community input shaping the next steps.

When finished, the estuary is expected to support healthier ecosystems, reduce harmful algae blooms, and reduce long-term maintenance costs associated with dredging.

📍 Context for Locals
Capitol Lake was originally created in the 1950s by damming the Deschutes River. While it served as a scenic feature for the Capitol Campus, it also disrupted natural water flow, created water quality issues, and blocked fish passage.

This project would return the area to its pre-dam state, creating a more natural tidal estuary that reflects the landscape of Olympia’s original shoreline.